Growing up I was always told to finish my food. Being the obedient girl that I am, I always did. In fact, I even often ended up eating my sisters leftovers, as well as my moms because I believed that it was a “sin” to leave food on one’s plate. I held on to that lesson as a student would have held on to what was written in his or her textbooks. It was set in stone. So even if I was full or could barely manage to finish everything, I would force myself.

On one hand, teaching kids to finish the food on their plates is a very important lesson. However, I began to realize by staying in the Clean Plate Club was adding to my obesity, especially when I order food in restaurants. At home I am able to be more conscientious about getting what I can finish, but outside I have no control over that.

While I feel a bit guilty about leaving food on my plate, I realized that I should really quit the club for good. So that’s what I’ve been doing lately, not because I’m wasteful, but more because I’m mindful of my own well-being and health. As much as I can, however, I try to have whatever leftover wrapped for my Bubba so at least it doesn’t go to the trash